BAI Communications partners with Olympia to provide high speed connectivity infrastructure as part of the iconic landmark’s regeneration

• London landmark Olympia has signed its first commercial partnership with leading shared communications infrastructure provider BAI Communications. 
• As the official distributed antenna system (DAS) partner for Olympia, BAI will install 5G mobile infrastructure enabling high speed mobile connectivity for visitors to the iconic heritage site. 
• The 14 acre site is currently undergoing an extensive regeneration, transforming into the ultimate destination for culture, creativity and entertainment, set to open in 2025. 

BAI Communications (BAI) and Olympia have today announced a new partnership to bring its 5G multi-carrier wireless network infrastructure to Olympia, as part of the venue’s £1.3bn regeneration of the iconic landmark in London.  

As the official distributed antenna system (DAS) partner for Olympia, BAI will build the infrastructure that will enable 5G communications and connectivity services throughout Olympia’s outdoor and indoor spaces, including the entertainment venues, offices, hotels, performing arts school, bars and restaurants.  

BAI’s distributed antenna system is designed to be shared by all four UK mobile network operators to deliver seamless connectivity to users. The infrastructure minimises equipment and power usage, contributing to a more sustainable and efficient means of delivering reliable mobile connectivity to visitors to Olympia.   

This follows BAI’s successful partnership with Transport for London (TfL) to provide the infrastructure to enable high-speed mobile coverage to the London Underground network. By enabling high speed mobile connectivity on the Underground and across Olympia, guests will be able to enjoy seamless connectivity whilst travelling to Olympia and throughout their visit. 

Once complete, the regenerated Olympia will be a global destination for culture, creativity and entertainment, with a diverse and extensive range of facilities on offer. The historic exhibition venues are being revamped with the addition of two globally renowned hotels, over 25 bars and restaurants, offices, a new AEG music arena and a performing arts school and theatre which will generate a projected footfall of over 10 million visitors per annum.   

The deal, which will enable high speed connectivity across the entire development, was brokered by AEG’s Global Partnership’s team, who are acting as sponsorship consultants to the project. 

“We are delighted to announce our new partnership with Olympia, paving the way for unrivalled mobile connectivity within this iconic London venue. This marks another major step in our commitment to creating great digital infrastructure for London. Building on our partnership with TfL, visitors will be able to enjoy seamless connectivity on their Tube journey to the venue and throughout their visit, as we continue our mission to enhance connectivity across the capital. Our experience in building advanced communications infrastructure makes BAI the perfect partner to bring high-speed mobile connectivity to the broad variety of attractions and facilities at Olympia.” Billy D’Arcy, UK and Ireland CEO at BAI Communications said. “This network will not only enhance the visitor experience but create an essential foundation for future partners to drive technological advancements throughout the venues.” 

Lloyd Lee, Managing Partner at Yoo Capital, real estate investment firm and owner of Olympia, said: “We are thrilled to partner with BAI Communications to bring best-in-class communications infrastructure to Olympia. As we transform this iconic landmark into London’s leading cultural destination, seamless connectivity will be fundamental to enriching the consumer experience across all 14 acres. We want every visit to Olympia to enjoy a completely seamless experience from stepping off the train on arrival all the way through their entire experience at Olympia.  Since 1886, Olympia has been a showcase for great innovation, and we are proud to partner with BAI to showcase how the best in technology and innovation can play a powerful role in the future of great experiences in iconic destinations.” 

Will Dowdy, Vice President of Global Partnerships at AEG Europe, said: “The regeneration of Olympia will transform the site, creating a global destination for culture, entertainment, music and the arts, and enhancing its iconic and historic significance. Key to this is ensuring that visitors can access high-speed mobile coverage and we are excited to welcome BAI as the DAS partner for Olympia, providing the very best 5G communications infrastructure across the entire site.”   

As a leading global provider of neutral host communications infrastructure, BAI has proven experience of installing shared communications infrastructure in complex environments, from the London Underground network to Sunderland city centre.  

The company’s rebrand to Boldyn Networks at the end of June 2023, which brings together six BAI businesses in the Northern Hemisphere, will create one of the world’s largest shared network infrastructure providers and the partner of choice for mobile and fixed network operators, and customers in the venue, transit, government, military, real estate, and enterprise sectors.